Jackrabbit Athletics introduces new strategic plan

Recognizing recent accomplishments while eyeing long-term success in the future, South Dakota State University Athletics has unveiled its new strategic plan, The Jackrabbit Way.

“Our new strategic plan reinforces many of the same core values and principles that have long been in place within Jackrabbit Athletics and also provides a roadmap to move our programs to an elite level within Division I over the next five years,” said Director of Athletics Justin Sell.

The Jackrabbit Way was developed in concert with Impact 2018 – the University-wide strategic plan that was introduced in 2013. The Jackrabbit Way also contains many key components of the 2025 Master Plan for Athletic Facilities, most notably the Sanford-Jackrabbit Athletic Complex indoor training and competition facility currently under construction and a proposed new football stadium.

“Much like Impact 2018, the athletic strategic plan will chart a direction to take athletics to a new level,” said Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Laurie Nichols. “I commend the Athletic Department for developing an ambitious vision and sharing it widely with the campus, current and future student athletes, fans, supporters, and the public. With already strong momentum, this plan will garner buy-in, ensuring that goals are achieved and a strong athletic program continues to evolve.”

Over the past year, university administrators and athletic department staff members worked with CarrSports Consulting, LLC, to develop The Jackrabbit Way. Jackrabbit Athletics has had a long association working with CarrSports Consulting, starting with SDSU’s exploration of moving to Division I in the early 2000s.

“We are impressed with the ongoing achievements and direction of South Dakota State University and Jackrabbit Athletics,” said Bill Carr, president of CarrSports Consulting. “It has been an honor assisting in the development of SDSU Athletics’ new strategic plan, The Jackrabbit Way.”